The newly-opened Mansion Nightclub launches Hypnotiq Thursdays with resident DJ, DJ Jean B.

Coming soon especially for Ramadan, is a refined dark chocolate praline by Armani/Dolci. Exquisitely prepared, the top part of this dolce is in gold and embossed with the distinctive Armani “A” in relief. The soft cream filling wins you over with its unique notes of cardamom and saffron, spices taken from the intensely aromatic and fragranced traditional Arabian coffee.

Join Chef Alessandro Salvatico in the kitchen this month for a personal master class at Armani/Ristorante in the Armani Hotel. The course will explore one of the culinary world’s most unusual ingredients – the artichoke. Enjoy four hours of in-depth tutorial with Chef Alessandro as well as the chance to relax over lunch alongside an exquisite three-course menu featuring artichoke salad, tagliatelle with artichokes, fresh baby spinach and smoked ricotta, and fillet of wild sea bass with braised artichokes, potatoes and olives.

Renowned for her range of elegant eveningwear, Italian designer Alberta Ferretti has created an exclusive gown for Eid in her Autumn Winter 2012 collection and it is only available at Alberta Ferretti, The Dubai Mall. The long gown with front pleating detail, is offered in orange silk chiffon over a gold silk underlay which creates a shimmering effect when it catches the light. There is a limited quantity of seven dresses that will be offered in this color and created especially for Dubai in celebration of Eid Al Fitr.

Marni, the Italian fashion line known for quirky, feminine combinations of bright colors, bold graphic patterns and elaborate fantasy prints, has created two exclusive necklaces for Dubai, in celebration of Eid Al Fitr.

On 24 May, Armani Exchange hosted their summer 2012 party at the Madinat Arena. With international DJ Perseus flying in from New York to take the decks, the guests watched as eight models strutted the vibrantly coloured collection atop of an acrylic stage. Light boxes lit up the background with flashing cubes and the Armani Exchange AX logo. One of Dubai’s most popular musical talents, DJ Kennedy, also performed on the evening.

Just a little ways off from Madinat Jumeirah’s Al Qasr Hotel, designed to replicate a Sheikh’s summer residence, is a tranquil sanctuary dedicated to the wellness of the mind and the body. One can reach Talise Spa by car through a private road, by a abra, a water taxi from Al Qasr, or by golf cart from the main entrance. Whichever you choose, the effect is magical – as you make your way towards the entrance of the spa, you pass through a variety of luscious plants and palm trees evoking the calming ambiance of a tropical oasis. Upon entry, friendly staff attentively greet you and bring you refreshing hand towels and soothing cucumber water. I’ve always found the lobby of Jumeirah’s Talise Spa to exude an air of pristine order, calm and professionalism. The venue is more than just a spa – it is a wellness center dedicated to the thorough examination of how to effectively balance the mind and the body. Wellness scans, a full-time naturopath, yoga classes and a variety of spa treatments make Talise Spa the epitome of care for the mind and the body. I finished my cucumber water and made my way through the multitude of unique treatment rooms designed in the manner of small, private oases, to arrive for my treatment – a Balance Facial.

The wealth of luxury hotels popping up all over Abu Dhabi is bringing a host of high-end specialty spas to the capital. One such one is Iridium Spa at St. Regis Hotel on Saadiyat Island. The venue boasts a 3500 square meter facility including 12 treatment rooms and three spa suites entitled appropriately Moroccan, Thai and Contemporary according to the treatment received. Stepping into this oasis of calm overlooking stunning sea views off Saadiyat Island, the visitor feels as if they’ve stepped far away from the frenetic pace of the nearby cities of Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Enter into the classic dim-lit setting of 55th & 5th, The Grill at the newly-opened St. Regis Hotel in Abu Dhabi and you’ll be whisked away to the quiet and ultra-sophisticated setting of the original St. Regis in New York City. With its high ceilings, minimalist decor, dark wooden floors and high backed black armchairs, this is a restaurant which recalls the sharp style found in posh New York eateries. There’s an East Coast big city feeling which pervades the ambiance; 55th & 55th’s decor exudes an understated wealth, elegance, and heritage. Three discreet alcoves – each with their own chandelier – provides for an intimate and classy dining experience.